NFL preseason 2015: Players with most to prove

Dec 21, 2014; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; New York Jets quarterback Geno Smith (7) reacts after an incomplete pass during the third quarter against the New England Patriots at MetLife Stadium. The Patriots defeated the Jets 17-16. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports /

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May 15, 2015; Nashville, TN, USA; Tennessee Titans first round draft pick quarterback Marcus Mariota (8) claps his hands as he breaks the huddle during his first minicamp work out at Saint Thomas Sports Park. Mandatory Credit: Jim Brown-USA TODAY Sports /

Tennessee Titans – Marcus Mariota

Why is he the pick?

Mariota comes into his rookie season with a ton of question marks, although not all are because of him. Few players come into the league with such a terrific reputation as a person, yet so many concerns as a player. Mariota has terrific mobility and can make the short throws, but he is coming from the University of Oregon where quarterbacks are not asked to go through progressions.

Additionally, Mariota has not had to prove his ability throwing down the field. With Tennessee, teams are going to choke off the short routes and force Mariota to go over the top for chunks of yardage. If he can’t do that, or go through his reads, the Titans are going to be in serious trouble on offense.

What is at stake?

Ken Whisenhunt’s job. Last year, the Titans went 2-14 and generally looked like the worst team in football by a comfortable margin. Tennessee did not do much to upgrade in free agency, adding safety Da’Norris Searcy and outside linebacker Brian Orakpo. If Mariota can play well, he will instantly get Tennessee fans excited and provide hope, likely keeping Whisenhunt around. If not, it could be curtains.

Next: Denver Broncos

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